Exactly how the three fellas came to wearing matching white tuxedos, black bowties, freshly cut boutonnieres and posing for this family photo is a long story that has changed over the years; depending upon which surviving family member you happen to speak.

One thing is crystal clear - In 1884, Ernesto Larco, the boys' father, left Italy for America, the "land of opportunity," with not much more than the shirt on his back and a handful of old-world family recipes in his trousers pocket.

Those ingredients were the cornerstone behind opening his first authentic Italian restaurant in Providence, Rhode Island in 1918, his second establishment in 1922 in Biddeford, Maine, and three short years later another eatery in Old Orchard, Maine was born.

Preparing food for all to enjoy, Ernesto raised his three sons, Pete, Nick and Mike (L-R in above photograph) to carry on the restaurant tradition that has grown stronger with each passing decade.

After the "Great Depression" and serving in the Armed Forces during World War II, the boys opened Larco's Inn in Detroit, which became a veritable jewel on the metropolitan restaurant scene.

Today, the same kind of fine cuisine that Ernesto Larco first served back in the "Roaring Twenties" lives on in relaxed, inviting settings that have long been the hallmark of the dining establishments that bear his name and are currently represented by the 4th generation of Larcos.

After a long run on the corner of Orchard Lake and Maple Road in West Bloomfield, Larco's Italian Grille has morphed into Mike Larco's A La Carte.

The mouthwatering fare at Mike Larco's A La Carte has old timers praisefully saying things such as "It's so great to have you back in the neighborhood with your excellent food and cozy decor" and "We've eaten at one Larco's or another since the 40's and bringing our kids in the other night and having them see all the photographs of those early days was such a lovely trip down memory lane!"

From fantastic filets to succulent lamb chops; from pasta dishes that leave you smiling, to the freshest seafood found in Southeastern Michigan - your tastebuds are sure to feel especially treated. Don't be surprised if they beg you to return often to this joyful Sylvan Lake location!

Only a short trip East across town will bring you to grandson Mark Larco's Troy incarnation. The once popular Larco's there has recently been transformed into the Big Beaver Tavern. Still under the Larco ownership banner, this decidedly different decor is as welcoming as any. One constant thread running through the Larco family fabric is their attention to detail, as they're always making sure to serve the needs of their clientele.

Surely grandpa Ernesto is smiling down on the whole family as they carry on the legacy of wonderful restaurants he created; those creations that inspire following generations to work hard each and every day in order to ensure the Larco tradition of excellent food at a fair price is carried on in proud fashion.